Two senior Tongan noblemen have died suddenly this week - Hon. 'Akau'ola (70) this morning, and Hon. Tu'iafitu (72) on Monday. They were both Vava'u estate holders.

The Hon. 'Akau'ola CVO (70), the Governor of Vava'’u and a senior member of the Tongan Privy Council and Cabinet, died at about 7:00 am this morning in the Emergency Room at Vaiola Hospital, Nuku'alofa.

A member of his household confirmed today that 'Akau'’ola was taking his early morning exercise walk when he apparently collapsed and was rushed to the hospital.

The cause of his death has yet to be confirmed as well as funeral arrangements for the'apo, his night of mourning and burial.

It is also yet to be confirmed whether his funeral will be held in Tongatapu or in Vava'u.

'‘Akau'ola is survived by his wife 'Evelini and five children.

He was a former Director of the Commonwealth Foundation in the United Kingdom during the early 1990s.

Hon. Tu'i'afitu dies

Noble Tu'’i'afitu (72) died on Monday October 3 at his home Toa Lea '‘o e Kilikili Tefua at Vava'u.

His eldest daughter Tuna Tu'’i'afitu confirmed today that his '‘apo or night of mourning would be held on the evening of Friday October 9 at his residence before he is taken the next morning for burial.

Noble Tu'’i'afitu is the estate holder of Makave, Holopeka and Fonoifua in Vava...’u.

He is survived by seven children, and was predeceased by his wife ...‘Uhila.